Nikon 55-300mm Zoom Lens
Score: 78/100
Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 45-150mm
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Nikon 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR provides a broad 5.5× zoom and solid VR II for DX-format cameras. Zoom creep and slower AF can hinder fast-action shooting, and edge softness remains at the long end. Best suited for entry-level DX users seeking affordable telephoto versatility.
The Panasonic 45-150mm f/4-5.6 is a compact telephoto zoom with strong image stabilization and good central sharpness. Its trade-offs are a variable slow aperture, edge softness and lack of weather sealing. Best suited for travelers and hobbyists who value portability over ruggedness.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 1.4 m | 0.9 mbest |
| ↓ lower better | 580 g | 318 gbest |
5.5best | 3.3 | |
9best | 7 | |
0.3best | 0.2 | |
17best | 12 | |
11best | 9 | |
58 mmbest | 52 mm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(1) | ||
Lens Mount | Nikon F-Bayonet | Micro Four Thirds |
Features(2) | ||
Autofocus Type | AF-S | stepping motor |
Focus Type | Auto | autofocus |
Optics(9) | ||
Focal Length (mm) | 55-300 mm | 45-150 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f‑stop) | 4.5-5.6 | 4-5.6 |
Minimum Focus Distance (m) | 1.4 m | 0.90 m |
Zoom Ratio | 5.5 | 3.33 |
Macro Ratio | 0.28 | 0.17 |
Number of Optical Elements | 17 | 12 |
Number of Optical Groups | 11 | 9 |
Diaphragm Blades | 9 | 7 |
Coating | Super Integrated Coating | Nano‑Surface Coating |
Build & Design(5) | ||
Filter Thread Size (mm) | 58 mm | 52 mm |
Weight (g) | 580 g | 318 g |
Length (mm) | 123 mm | 102 mm |
Maximum Diameter (mm) | 77 mm | 62 mm |
Construction Material | Polycarbonate | Metal |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Nikon 55-300mm for its generous reach, quiet Silent Wave Motor, and effective VR II stabilization, noting that the ED and HRI elements keep chromatic aberration low. However, they criticize the soft corner performance at 300mm, slower autofocus compared to higher-end telephotos, and diffraction limits when stopping down beyond f/16.
Everyday users love the lens for its lightweight, travel-friendly design, solid VR performance, and ability to get close-up shots of insects, but they repeatedly mention zoom creep, slower AF for action, and noticeable softness in the telephoto corners as recurring pain points.
“Users praise sharp distant shots for sports/wildlife, effective VR for handheld telephoto, compact size/weight for travel, and close focus for insects (e.g., 3-inch field at 300mm).”
“Common complaints include zoom creep/wiggle, slow AF for action, soft 300mm corners, filter rotation, and VR less effective on tripod without sensing.”
Professional reviewers consider the Panasonic 45-150mm f/4-5.6 a standout value lens, praising its sharpness, effective MEGA O.I.S., and compact, lightweight build. They note the variable slow aperture, edge softness at extremes, and lack of weather sealing as trade-offs.
Everyday users consistently applaud the lens's portability and surprising sharpness, especially for wildlife, portraits, and travel photography. Common praise centers on the convenient 52mm filter size, smooth manual focus, and quiet AF for video. Recurring complaints focus on the slow f/4-5.6 aperture, occasional edge softness, and the plastic feel with no weather sealing.
